Thread: Airline News

Some retard managed to get the door open on an Airbus A330 in flight

Memorial Day weekend. air travel surges past pre-pandemic levels

Nearly 9.8 million people nationwide passed through airport security over the Memorial Day long weekend, the Transportation Security Administration said Tuesday.

Why it matters: The four-day figure is roughly 300,000 higher than the number for the same holiday weekend in 2019, per the TSA.

• Air travel on Friday hit a post-pandemic single-day record, with around 2.74 million travelers screened, the agency added.

The big picture: The robust air travel numbers were in line with projections that Memorial Day weekend would mark a travel boom and reach pre-pandemic levels, Axios' Sareen Habeshian writes.

• U.S. Transportation Secretary Secretary Pete Buttigieg warned last week that the holiday would “test the system” for airlines.

It's the summer of international travel — despite high prices

Even as travelers gripe about sky-high ticket prices, air travel — especially the international variety — is way up as we head into summer.

The big picture: With COVID-19 restrictions largely a thing of the past, travelers are itching to dust off their passports.

• There's especially high demand for tickets to Japan, leading to higher ticket prices, says Clint Henderson, managing editor of travel site The Points Guy.
• China, too, has opened back up — but airlines haven't yet restored their pre-pandemic service levels, meaning there's a shortage of available seats.

Plus, the U.S. dollar is currently weak against many other currencies, effectively hiking the cost of buying goods and services abroad.

• "International travel has fully rebounded and then some," Henderson tells Axios.

By the numbers: U.S.-to-Europe tickets are averaging $1,300 round trip, per deal-spotting site Hopper — a 50% jump from last year.

• Tickets to Asia, meanwhile, are up a staggering 70% compared to pre-pandemic figures, averaging nearly $2,000 round trip.
• This'll be the most expensive Memorial Day weekend for international travel in at least a half-decade, Hopper says.

What they're saying: "While U.S. travelers are returning in droves to popular destinations including New York and Cancun, the biggest year-over-year increases are for longer-haul destinations including Auckland, Hong Kong and Osaka," per travel booking site Expedia's summer forecast.

• Hopper says the top international destinations are London, Paris and Tokyo, plus "newly open Asian destinations," including South Korea and Shanghai.

Between the lines: Airlines are opting for bigger planes but fewer overall flights this summer amid an air traffic controller shortage and aircraft production issues.

• United Airlines COO Toby Enqvist called this summer's travel season the airline's Super Bowl.

Yes, but: The rise of emerging low-cost airlines, such as Norway's Norse Atlantic Airways, is helping to suppress prices in the markets they serve, Henderson says.

Be smart: If you're looking for a (relatively) cheap international getaway from the U.S., Henderson recommends Southeast Asia — particularly Thailand and Indonesia — where your dollar goes further.

• The dollar is also "insanely strong" against Turkey's lira right now, he adds. (The U.S. State Department, however, cautions against visiting regions close to or along the Syrian border.)
• And domestic airfare is getting cheaper, with the average round-trip ticket at $273, per Hopper, down 26% from last year.

The bottom line: "Last summer was predominantly a domestic travel summer. This summer is all about international travel," Hopper's consumer travel expert Lindsay Schwimer tells Axios.

• "Americans are really eager to get out there and take those bucket list trips."

Screamliner...

Boeing said Tuesday a new defect has been discovered on its 787 Dreamliner commercial aircraft line.
"We are inspecting 787s in our inventory for a nonconforming condition related to a fitting on the horizontal stabilizer," the US-based airplane manufacturer said in a statement. "Airplanes found to have a nonconforming condition will be reworked prior to ticket and delivery.”
Boeing said the defect is not an immediate safety issue and aircraft in service may continue to operate
The company noted it has notified the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and customers about the issue.
Boeing’s stock price fell to as low as $200.61 around 2 p.m. EDT -- a 3.9% loss after closing the previous day at $208.82. It was trading at $207.27 at 3.18 p.m.
The FAA announced in August that Boeing could resume deliveries of 787 Dreamliners after necessary changes were made and all certification standards were met.
Deliveries were suspended for almost two years due to several flaws in manufacturing, which cost the company $5.5 billion, Boeing said in January 2022.
Boeing's largest customers, such as United Airlines and American Airlines, failed to get new Dreamliners while airline travel began to rise last summer in the post-coronavirus pandemic period.

https://www.aa.com.tr/en/health/boeing-says-new-defect-found-on-787-dreamliner-aircraft/2916089

Qld’s green jet fuel industry set to soar with Qantas partnership

The Palaszczuk Government has joined forces with airline giant Qantas to get Queensland’s vision to be an Asia-Pacific green jet fuel hub on the runway.

Under a memorandum of understanding signed today, the Queensland Government and Qantas will work together to further grow a local (sustainable aviation fuel) SAF industry.

This will include exploring how to fully leverage sugarcane and agricultural by-products for biofuels production and the potential for developing new feedstock sources and processes.

More broadly, the parties will focus on developing a Queensland-based SAF supply chain.

SAF is yet to be produced in Australia at commercial scale.

Qantas currently uses green aviation fuel sourced overseas and is targeting 10% SAF in its fuel mix by 2030, and about 60% by 2050.

Today’s announcement, during Australian Renewable Fuels Week, is the latest in a series of SAF wins for Queensland.

In March this year, the Palaszczuk Government, Qantas and Airbus announced support for Jet Zero Australia to commence a feasibility study for a new biorefinery in Queensland, which could produce up to 100 million litres of SAF a year.

The Palaszczuk Government has also partnered with Ampol and ENEOS, which will assess the feasibility of delivering an advanced biofuels manufacturing plant at Ampol’s Lytton site.

Oceania Biofuels also plans to build a commercial aviation fuel biorefinery in Gladstone, which could generate up to 350 million litres of SAF and renewable diesel each year.

Quotes attributable to Deputy Premier Steven Miles:

“When it comes to decarbonising our skies, Queensland is the place to invest.

“Growing our SAF industry is one of those opportunities that will fuel Queensland’s economic future and contribute to decarbonisation targets.

“With our rich supply of feedstock and skilled workforce, Qantas, and the world, has recognised Queensland as an ideal location to establish an Australasian SAF supply chain.

“The Palaszczuk Government’s commitment to sustainability has given Qantas the confidence to trust us a sustainable aviation fuel hub, because we have set the state up for success, with the Queensland Energy and Jobs plan.

“Partnerships like this one with Qantas position Queensland as a SAF hub, along with the right mix of investment, government support and policy, and industry collaboration.

“Importantly, growing industries that will be in demand in a decarbonising world will create more good jobs for Queenslanders and new export opportunities.

“This is another step towards Queensland’s take-off as a clean energy superpower.”

Quotes attributable to Qantas Group Chief Sustainability Officer Andrew Parker:

“Air travel is a critical industry, especially in a state as big as Queensland with an economy that benefits so much from tourism. Having a clear plan to decarbonise air travel so we can keep connecting Queensland and Australia in the decades ahead is key for the future,” Mr Parker said.

“Sustainable fuels are the most significant tool airlines currently have to reduce their emissions, particularly given they can be used in today’s engines and fuel delivery infrastructure with no modifications.

“Qantas will be the largest single customer for Australian-made SAF, so it’s fantastic that the Queensland Government is seeking to partner with us so we can work together on establishing the industry from the ground up.

“The Queensland Government is already showing real leadership in helping accelerate the development of a local SAF industry, which is giving the State a head start over other parts of the country.”

Originally Posted by S Landreth

Quotes attributable to Deputy Premier Steven Miles:

“When it comes to decarbonising our skies, Queensland is the place to invest.

I thought this was about producing fuels from sustainable sources, to reduce dependence on fossil fuels.
The fuels will still be burning carbon-based compoounds. I don't know that much about it, maybe someone knows if this project is really going to 'decarbonise our skies'.

^reduce

Sustainable fuels are the most significant tool airlines currently have to reduce their emissions, particularly given they can be used in today’s engines and fuel delivery infrastructure with no modifications.

Eva Air A330 decapitated the winglet of a Thai A330 in Tokyo.

Winglet of a Thai Airways A330 clipped in Tokyo-Haneda - Pattaya One News

United Airlines announces plans to make a big change to its seats

The in-flight entertainment on United Airlines planes is about to look a lot different.

Beginning in 2025, the Chicago-based airline plans to install a new in-flight entertainment system called Astrova on select planes, a joint announcement from United and Panasonic Avionics said earlier this week.

According to officials, United will be the first American customer of the "in-flight engagement" solution from Panasonic.

"Our customers tell us that they want to be engaged, entertained and productive in the air," United Airlines' Managing Director of Identity, Product and Loyalty Mark Muren said in the announcement. "Our new partnership with Panasonic Avionics will make that possible and enable us to set a new standard of in-flight excellence as a key part of United Next. Together United and Panasonic will drive new standards of engagement when customers come onboard a United aircraft.”

According to a press release, Astrova's in-flight entertainment system includes 4k OLED technology with sharper, clearer image quality, along with "cinema-grade colors, 3D audio and USB chargers at each seat meant to create a "fully immersive experience for passengers."

The agreement between Astrova and United builds upon the airline's previous agreement to install Panasonic Avation's "X Series," an upgraded entertainment system across a number of aircraft, the release adds. It is also part of a handful of retro and line-fit installations across United's fleet, as well as United Next, a fleet of planes that is "enhancing's the passenger experience" on aircraft flown in several domestic and international markets.

The United Next fleet, the release states, offers seatback entertainment screens at every seat, with different sized screens throughout. For example, those sitting in the First Class cabin will have 13-inch monitors, while Economy passengers will have 10-inch monitors. United Next is also outfitted with larger overhead bin space, high speed WiFi, USB outlets at every seat, Bluetooth audio connections for in-flight entertainment, and LED lighting throughout the cabin, the release goes on to say.

X Series | Panasonic Avionics

Runway closed at Tokyo airport after plane contact

anything to make those long hauls better

Originally Posted by S Landreth

United Airlines announces plans to make a big change to its seats

The in-flight entertainment on United Airlines planes is about to look a lot different.

Beginning in 2025, the Chicago-based airline plans to install a new in-flight entertainment system called Astrova on select planes, a joint announcement from United and Panasonic Avionics said earlier this week.

According to officials, United will be the first American customer of the "in-flight engagement" solution from Panasonic.

"Our customers tell us that they want to be engaged, entertained and productive in the air," United Airlines' Managing Director of Identity, Product and Loyalty Mark Muren said in the announcement. "Our new partnership with Panasonic Avionics will make that possible and enable us to set a new standard of in-flight excellence as a key part of United Next. Together United and Panasonic will drive new standards of engagement when customers come onboard a United aircraft.”

According to a press release, Astrova's in-flight entertainment system includes 4k OLED technology with sharper, clearer image quality, along with "cinema-grade colors, 3D audio and USB chargers at each seat meant to create a "fully immersive experience for passengers."

The agreement between Astrova and United builds upon the airline's previous agreement to install Panasonic Avation's "X Series," an upgraded entertainment system across a number of aircraft, the release adds. It is also part of a handful of retro and line-fit installations across United's fleet, as well as United Next, a fleet of planes that is "enhancing's the passenger experience" on aircraft flown in several domestic and international markets.

The United Next fleet, the release states, offers seatback entertainment screens at every seat, with different sized screens throughout. For example, those sitting in the First Class cabin will have 13-inch monitors, while Economy passengers will have 10-inch monitors. United Next is also outfitted with larger overhead bin space, high speed WiFi, USB outlets at every seat, Bluetooth audio connections for in-flight entertainment, and LED lighting throughout the cabin, the release goes on to say.

X Series | Panasonic Avionics

Airlines required to install secondary cockpit barriers in new planes under new FAA rule

Airlines will be required to install a secondary cockpit barrier in new planes under a new rule from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

The FAA said in a release on Wednesday that it will mandate a secondary barrier to be included on the flight deck of new commercial airplanes to enhance safety measures. The agency said the rule will protect flight decks from intrusion when the flight deck door is open.

“Every day, pilots and flight crews transport millions of Americans safely – and today we are taking another important step to make sure they have the physical protections they deserve,” Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said in the release.

The agency originally proposed the rule last year after receiving recommendations from aircraft manufacturers and labor partners.

Jason Ambrosi, the president of the Air Line Pilots Association, said during an event where the FAA announced the new rule that the country responded to the 9/11 attacks with measures to prevent another similar tragedy from occurring, but airplanes have not had secondary barriers. He said these barriers are a “proven effective” barricade that prevents dangerous individuals from reaching the cockpit during a flight.

“This added layer of security will help me and my fellow pilots focus on the most important part of our job, the safe operation of every flight to ensure our aviation system remains the gold standard of safety,” he said.

Bill Cason, the director of security for the Coalition of Airline Pilots Association, said the door to the flight deck needed to be open at times during a flight for instances like meal service and crew transitions. He said this created a vulnerability, and a coordinated attack could get inside the flight deck in as little as three seconds of the door being opened.

“It’s a cost-effective, scalable security enhancement for our air domain,” Cason said.

The rule will go into effect 60 days from Wednesday, when it was published. But airlines do not need to comply with the requirement until 2025, USA Today reported.

Acting FAA Administrator Polly Trottenberg said she hopes airlines will make the change ahead of the deadline.

“If they’re taking a plan for delivery right now, there’s no reason it should not come with a secondary barrier,” she said.

Bangkok bound flight delayed after owl hits engine on the ground in Khon Kaen

An owl struck the right engine of a Thai Viet Jet aircraft, as it was parked on the apron of Khon Kaen international airport on Saturday night, causing the flight to be delayed and its 159 passengers to be transferred to another aircraft.


The incident took place at 7.35pm as Thai Viet Jet’s flight VZ215 was waiting for the 159 passengers to board.


The bird strike forced the airline to arrange for another aircraft to carry the passengers to Bangkok, albeit several hours behind schedule.


The damaged plane remains on the apron, as mechanics assess the damage.

https://www.thaipbsworld.com/bangkok...-in-khon-kaen/

Originally Posted by misskit

An owl struck the right engine of a Thai Viet Jet aircraft, as it was parked on the apron of Khon Kaen international airport

Fucking hell, how fast was that owl travelling?

Rex launches Melbourne to Hobart route from August with fares starting from $79

Australian airline Rex has announced a new route with flights starting from $79.

On Thursday, the airline announced the new daily flights between Melbourne and Hobart will start on August 17.

Hobart will be Rex’s fourth Tasmanian destination as it already regularly flies to Burnie, Devonport and King Island.

Flights will start from $79 one-way including ”full service” with baggage allowance, seat selection and a snack on board.

Business class flights on the service will start from $349, which is about $500 cheaper than a Qantas flight from Melbourne to Hobart.

The Rex flight will depart Melbourne at 12.15pm and arrive in Hobart at 1.30pm and the return flight will leave at 2.15pm and land in Melbourne 75 minutes later.

“This new service gives more choice for travellers flying between Melbourne and Hobart, and provides an additional mid-afternoon schedule option arriving into Melbourne in time for dinner,” Hobart Airport CEO Norris Carter said.

Last week, Rex announced another new destination, confirming it will start direct Adelaide to Sydney flights on June 29 after adding two more Boeing 737s to its fleet.

Airbus and India's Indigo airline clinch biggest plane deal in history

Airbus has just landed the biggest-ever aircraft order in the history of commercial aviation.

The French aerospace giant announced Monday that budget Indian airline IndiGo had placed an order for 500 of its A320 planes, to be delivered between 2030 and 2035.

The deal sets “the record for the biggest single purchase agreement in the history of commercial aviation,” Airbus (EADSY) said in a statement, and brings the total number of Airbus (EADSY) planes IndiGo has ordered to 1,330.

Founded in 2006, IndiGo is India’s top airline by market share, according to its website. It flew 86 million customers in the last financial year.

Aviation companies are eager to capitalize on India’s strong economy and its booming population, which may well translate into higher demand for air travel further down the line. In February, IndiGo’s rival Air India ordered more than 470 jets from Airbus and Boeing (BA).

Tech companies have also got the memo, with some expanding production and opening new stores in the country in anticipation of huge growth in their pool of customers.

The International Monetary Fund expects the South Asian nation to outperform all major emerging and advanced economies this year, logging 5.9% growth in gross domestic product. The United Nations also estimated in April that India was on track to overtake China to become the world’s most populous nation by the middle of the year, with 1.43 billion people.

Pieter Elbers, IndiGo’s chief executive, said in a statement that Monday’s order would help the company “fulfill its mission to continue to boost economic growth, social cohesion and mobility in India.” Three quarters of IndiGo’s flights travel to domestic destinations.

In India, Elbers added, “an expanding economy and rising disposable incomes continue to add millions of first-time flyers to a booming aviation market.”

Horrible way to go.

Investigation underway after airline crew member dies at San Antonio International Airport

SAN ANTONIO – Authorities are investigating after an airline crew member died at the San Antonio International Airport Friday night.

It happened just before 10:30 p.m. Friday at the airport located at 9800 Airport Boulevard.

Delta Flight 1111 had arrived in San Antonio from Los Angeles and was heading to the gate when the airline worker was “ingested” into one of the engines, according to the National Transportation Safety Board.

The worker’s identity hasn’t been released, and further details on what happened are limited.

Investigation underway after airline crew member dies at San Antonio International Airport

Chinese airline is criticized over strict weight rules for female flight attendants

A Chinese airline has been criticized over a new policy imposing strict weight requirements on female flight attendants.

Early this month, Hainan Airlines issued guidelines to its cabin crew stating that female flight attendants would immediately be grounded if their weight exceeded the “standard limit” by 10%, the state newspaper Global Times reported.

The guidelines included a formula for calculating the limit based on height and said flight attendants who were suspended would be put on a company-supervised “weight reduction plan.”

The airline, which is one of the biggest in China, also emphasized the importance of female flight attendants’ appearance for the company’s image, the report added.

The guidelines drew outrage online, as well as questions about their legality.

Liu Tao, a lawyer in Dalian, China, with more than 10 years of experience in labor law disputes and civil rights, said that the airline’s policy was “very inappropriate and obviously illegal in China” and that it could constitute employment discrimination.

Though China once had national legislation allowing weight standards for flight attendants, it was abolished in 2001, Liu said.

“This weight standard could only be legitimized if Hainan Airlines asked for every employee’s agreement in advance with signed notifications and consent forms,” he said.

Hainan Airlines did not respond to requests for comment.

http://Investigation underway after ...tional Airport

It was suicide.

Death of Texas airport worker who was '''ingested''' in airplane engine is ruled a suicide

Originally Posted by Backspin

It was suicide.

Death of Texas airport worker who was '''ingested''' in airplane engine is ruled a suicide

i suspect he'd had a few and thought he'd carry on his blender